Don't Forget Herschel Walker

The legacy of Herschel Walker needs remembered. The powerful running back dominated at every level, and should be considered for the NFL Hall of Fame. During the Dallas Cowboy dynasty of the '90s, he was often referred to as the reason for success of the Cowboys.

After two Pro Bowl seasons, Walker was traded to Minnesota for a total of 11 players, including future draft picks Emmit Smith, Russell Maryland, Kevin Smith, and Darren Woodson. Walker retired in 1997 and recently won his first MMA fight over Greg Nagy by way of TKO.

The former NFL, USFL, and Heisman winner didn't touch a free weight until reaching the professional ranks. His daily routine included 2,000 push-ups, 3,000 sit-ups, 1,500 pull-ups, 1,000 dips, calisthenics, and martial arts training. According to Walker, he claimed to sleep only four hours each night.

During his freshman season, Walker helped the Georgia Bulldogs to an undefeated season and a victory over Notre Dame in the 1980 Sugar Bowl. The three-time All-American rushed for 5,259 yards with 52 touchdowns and a 5.3 yards per carry average in three seasons.

Walker then chose to sign with the New Jersey Generals of the USFL after his junior year of college. From 1983 until 1985 the running back gained 5,562 rushing yards before being selected in the fifth round of the 1985 draft by the Dallas Cowboys. In eleven NFL seasons, Walker amassed a respectable 8,225 rushing yards, 4,859 receiving yards, 5,084 yards off kick returns, and 84 total touchdowns.

Often called a disappointment, Walker does not get the credit he deserves. His NFL statistics are comparable to Hall of Fame running back Tony Dorsett, and he accounted for over 18,000 total yards.